If you’re craving something rich, cheesy, and full of flavor, this Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce is the recipe for you! Made with juicy ground beef, fluffy rice, and a creamy two-cheese sauce, this one-pan dinner comes together in under 40 minutes. It’s hearty, comforting, and guaranteed to earn a spot in your weeknight rotation.
This recipe is a spin on my popular Creamy Chicken and Rice Skillet, but with an even more indulgent beef-and-cheese twist. Inspired by my college roommate’s obsession with adding garlic butter and cheese to nearly everything, this skillet meal is the definition of comfort food.
What Is Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet?
The name says it all—garlic, butter, beef, rice, cheddar, and parmesan come together in one skillet for a dinner that’s creamy, savory, and completely satisfying. From the sizzling aroma of garlic to the melt-in-your-mouth cheesy sauce, this dish delivers bold flavor without the fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✨ One-pan wonder – minimal dishes, maximum flavor.
✨ Creamy, cheesy comfort – a velvety cheddar-parmesan sauce ties everything together.
✨ Budget-friendly – made with simple pantry staples.
✨ Kid- and family-approved – mild Cajun seasoning gives flavor without overwhelming heat.
✨ Customizable – swap proteins, grains, or seasonings to suit your taste.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cups beef broth
- Salt & pepper, to taste
How to Make It
- Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat and season lightly with salt and pepper. - Add Garlic & Spices
Push beef to one side of the skillet. Add garlic to the open space and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in onion powder and Cajun seasoning. - Cook the Rice
Stir in the uncooked rice and beef broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. - Make It Cheesy
Remove from heat. Stir in cheddar and parmesan until melted into a creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning. - Serve
Garnish with extra cheese or fresh parsley. Serve hot with salad, roasted veggies, or garlic bread.
Tips for Success
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa (adjust cook time).
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Don’t skip fresh garlic—it makes the flavor pop!
- For an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle more cheddar on top and broil for 1–2 minutes.
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Add a splash of broth when reheating.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It reheats beautifully and may taste even better the next day.
Is this dish spicy?
It’s mildly spiced from the Cajun seasoning, but you can tone it down or amp it up.
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely—just use a large skillet or Dutch oven.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Skillet with Cheddar Parmesan Sauce is everything you want in a weeknight dinner—quick, cheesy, hearty, and crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.